Anthony Davidson Tries Commentating

Guest Author - Christine Blachford

Takuma Sato says he is actively looking for a role in Formula 1 next season, and the rumours continue unabated regarding the different teams he has links with. The latest discussion is that he might have a test with Toro Rosso for a race drive.

Anthony Davidson, meanwhile, has been keeping a relatively low profile, but has suddenly resurfaced in the F1 public eye. He's been commentating for BBC radio, and doing a very good job of it.

It's no secret that commentating partnerships work very well when there is a mixture of broadcast experience and racing knowledge. On ITV in the UK, we have Martin Brundle (ex-driver) partnered with James Allen (journalist), and there we should have the best of both worlds.

Murray Walker started this trend being partnered with James Hunt for many years. The pair didn't always get on, it's fair to say, but when they did, it was a team that worked like magic. With Walker's enthusiasm and Hunt's inside knowledge, fans were in for a real commentating treat.

Having been in the car so recently, Anthony Davidson knows exactly what's going on with those drivers down there, and can share some very valuable insight into the race weekend. As a fan, I enjoy listening to his commentary and think it's something he could do in the future.

But what about his driving? Davidson says he's not ready to hang up his helmet just yet, and is looking to return to the paddock in 2009. Whilst Sato is keeping generally quiet when it comes to the media, but actively talking to teams behind the scenes, Davidson is getting the best of both worlds.

Presumably he is in talks with some teams for an opportunity next season, but at the same time, he's earning a living, keeping his name in the public's mind, and getting some useful experience for the future - beyond racing. I hope he does manage to get a seat for next year, because that's what he really wants, but at the same time, I can't wait until he is signed up as a commentator full time.

I'd love to know what you think about this - whether Davidson's career choices this year may be helping or hindering his future. And also whether drivers turning to commentating is good for the fans or not? Visit the forums to have your say!